Get Your New Social Security Card

Getting yourself a social security card is extremely important. That all-important Social Security number is essential for so many things in life—you’ll need it when you apply for a job, when you’re looking for credit, and more importantly, when you need to claim benefits later on.

So, how do you get your new social security card? It’s not rocket science; you complete the application, provide the correct documents to prove that you’re a citizen of the United States, and your identity and submit it to the SSA.

The documents can be dropped off at any SSA officeor mailed in if you prefer. What’s important, though, is to make sure that you complete the application carefully and that you provide the correct documents.

Tips to Make the Process Go More Smoothly

To start off, it’s essential to complete the application using the information that corresponds with the information on your ID or other official documentation. So, if your name is Edward and your nickname is Ed, go with Edward.

You have to provide the original documents or certified copies with your application. The rules in this regard are pretty clear.If you send photocopies or even notarized photocopies, your application is going to be rejected.

What classifies as a certified copy? That’s a copy that is issued and certified by the office that issued the original. So, if you want a copy of your driver’s license, plan a trip to the DMV. If you’re not sure about whether your copy is going to be accepted or not, go for the safe route and send in the originals.

It’s not an ideal solution. No one would be ecstatic about the prospect of letting go of his or her original birth certificate, but you will get the documents back when you get your SSC. To be on the safe side, though, if you’re mailing them in, use registered mail to track your documents.

Otherwise, brave the lines and drop everything off at your nearest SSA office.

Also, when it comes to the documentary proof, don’t assume that one document will be sufficient. You need to provide proof of citizenship and identity. A United States passport can be used for either, but in this case, not both.

If you use it as proof of citizenship, you’ll also need to provide a separate document to prove your identity. It’s part of the verification process to ensure that you are the correct person to apply for the card.

What Documents Do You Need?

For the first issue of your card, you’ll need to provide proof of citizenship and identity.With citizenship, you have fewer choices. You’ll need one of the following:

Your birth certificate

A passport

Your naturalization certificate

There’s a little more leeway when it comes to proving your identity. You can use one of the following:

A state-issued ID

An ID issued by your employer, school, or the military

Your US driver’s license or passport

Conclusion

If you provide the documents required and complete the form correctly, it takes around two weeks to process your application from start to finish.